English language testing Australia broadly refers to the English language tests that parties must take to be eligible to apply for certain visas in Australia. In other words, when we discuss English language testing Australia, it is essentially about the English language requirements for various visas.
The type of test that parties must take may depend on the visa subclass they are applying for. Similarly, even the minimum score requirement depends on the visa group and subclass. In this article, we will outline the different types of English language testing in Australia. Moreover, we will discuss some popular visa options and their English language testing requirements.
Types of English Language Testing Australia
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) accepts the following tests as part of visa applications:
- Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or TOEFL iBT (Internet based test)
- Cambridge English or C1 Advanced (CAE)
- Occupational English Test (OET) [This is a test that is especially meant for health professionals]
The DHA assesses English tests and determines the level of proficiency of the applicant. Given below are the various levels of English language proficiency:
- Functional English
- Vocational English
- Competent English
- Proficient English
- Superior English
Why Is English Language Testing Needed for Australian Immigration?
English language testing is a crucial component of the Australian immigration process for several key reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that immigrants have the necessary language skills to effectively communicate and integrate into Australian society. Proficiency in English is vital for everyday activities such as finding employment, accessing healthcare, and participating in the community.
Moreover, English language proficiency is a critical factor in ensuring the safety and well-being of immigrants themselves. It allows them to understand and respond to emergency situations, access essential services, and comprehend important legal and immigration documents.
From an economic perspective, language skills are directly linked to an immigrant’s ability to contribute to the Australian workforce effectively. Many job opportunities in Australia require strong English language skills, and this requirement ensures that immigrants can secure gainful employment and be self-sufficient.
In the context of family reunification, language proficiency helps maintain family connections by enabling effective communication among family members. It also contributes to social cohesion and integration, as it facilitates immigrants’ participation in Australian cultural and community activities.
English language testing serves as a practical means to ensure that immigrants can adapt, prosper, and participate fully in Australian society, making it a foundational requirement for successful immigration to Australia.
Examples of Scores Required for English Language Testing Australia
As we have mentioned above, the minimum scores required for English language testing in Australia may differ depending on the visa subclass. Let’s consider some examples.
Subclass 482 Visa (Temporary Skill Shortage)
For the short term stream under the 482 visa, the test takers must meet the below English language requirements.
| Test | Required results |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) | Overall band score of at least 5.0 with a score of at least 4.5 in each of the test components. |
| Occupational English Test (OET) | Score of at least ‘B’ in each of the four components |
| Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT) | iBT total score of at least 35 with a score of at least 3 for each of the test components of listening and reading, and a score of at least 12 for each of the test components of speaking and writing |
| Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) | Academic overall test score of at least 36 with a score of at least 30 in each of the test components |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced test | Overall test score of at least 154 with a score of at least 147 in each |
Subclass 190 Visa (State nominated permanent residency)
For skilled permanent visas such as the Subclass 190 and Subclass 189 visas, different English test scores mean allocation of different points. For example, if someone scores 90 in all sections of PTE (maximum score), they will receive 20 points towards their English test requirements.
Whereas, if someone is able to score 70 in all sections of PTE, they receive 10 points towards their English language requirements. Applicants with superior English (90 each in PTE) are awarded more points and therefore may have a higher chance of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.
Subclass 500 Visa (Student)
| English language test providers | Minimum score | Minimum score and at least 10 weeks English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) | Minimum score and at least 20 weeks ELICOS |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) | 5.5 | 5 | 4.5 |
| TOEFL internet-based test (only accepted if test is taken on or before 25 July 2023)* | 46 | 35 | 32 |
| Cambridge English: Advanced (Certificate in Advanced English) | 162 | 154 | 147 |
| Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) | 42 | 36 | 30 |
| Occupational English Test | B for each test component | N/A | N/A |
Seeking Advice from Immigration Lawyers
If you are looking for information on English language testing Australia and wish to apply for certain visas, do not hesitate to reach out to our team of migration lawyers.
Our team can help with a variety of visas such as:
- Student visas
- Permanent residency visas
- Employer sponsored visas include Subclass 186 and Subclass 482 visas
- Dependent visas such as partner visas
In case of any enquiries, feel free to leave a message or call our firm at 02 9723 8080. Contact us for more information.
